Many of us are confused by the cloudy messages coming from the major political parties. What do they really stand for? What is their position on major issues? Forget what they say. What will they do?

It is easy to identify the extreme fringes of the two major political parties in the United States. Tune in to talk radio and you will likely hear the host warning the listener about the real intentions of those on the extreme left. On Sunday morning television, the hosts and commentators often gang up on the token right-winger. The question is: Where is the mainstream?

The real people who make up the bulk of the electorate are not on the extreme fringes of either political party. These are common folk with genuine concerns on both sides of the political aisle. Where do the sensible Democrats and Republicans stand on the issues? This table illustrates 10 common differences:

At the heart of the difference between these two parties is how they interpret the constitution. Republicans believe the wording of the constitution was carefully crafted by the original architects of the document and that it may only be changed by constitutional amendment. Democrats believe that the Supreme Court should interpret the constitution with a view of modern times and issues in mind. They sometimes call it a “living document” that grows and changes with the nation it was written to preserve.

A common misconception holds that the form of government in the United States is a democracy. It is not a democracy. The majority does not always rule. The United States has a form of government that guarantees representation for all citizens and not just the majority. The Democrat view leans toward the will of the people. The Republican view leans more toward individual liberty.

Democrat leadership generally brings government that is more active in domestic issues than a Republican led administration. Republicans believe in government limited only to areas specifically spelled out in the constitution.

Both parties recognize the freedom to own property and business. The Democrats are more likely to step in and manage the capitalist economy. Republicans, on the other hand, would rather let the marketplace determine the ebb and flow of the economy.

Since Democrat leaders are more likely to invest in social projects, taxes to fund these programs often rise during a Democratic administration. Republicans, on the other hand, are more likely to cut or limit taxes. Critics argue that tax cuts can produce budget deficits. It is a delicate balance.

The Left Wing refers to the extreme liberal arm of the Democrat party. Conversely, the Right Wing refers to hard line conservatives of the Republican party.

The terms liberal and socialist are often used synonymously in error. Liberalism generally refers to the looser interpretation of the constitution. Conservatism refers to the stricter, more literal interpretation.

With only a few exceptions, the parties are generally polarized on the subject of abortion. Democrats are generally pro-choice, while the Republicans are pro-life.

Democrats in power generally regulate in favor of the environment at the cost, sometimes, of economic growth. Republicans, though, usually resist such regulation in favor of the economy. This is a delicate balance which must be maintained.

Finally, the subject of education has divided the country along party lines in recent years. Democrats favor the public school system and want to keep government educational dollars in the system. Republicans favor the use of school vouchers to divert tax dollars to private schools when students attend those institutions.

These political parties are both populated by patriotic Americans who love their country. There are differences on many topics and there is much room for debate. Thankfully, the American people are free to disagree. May the best candidate win.

I appreciate the explanations in this article. It is often confusing knowing the difference between left wing and right wing, conservative and liberal. For us non-political speaking Americans, this article explains a lot of cloudy terms.

Diane Myers

Posted August 22, 2008 at 6:32 pm

This article cleared up several questions that I had regarding the differences between the parties. It is nice to have someone put this information into an easy-to-understand format without all of the usual political jargon.

Kevin Jackson

Posted September 5, 2008 at 10:11 pm

When most Republicans start following their hearts not their heads and pocket books this country would be a much better place. I don’t believe people should abuse the system (and I know that some do) but it is our place to make sure we take care of people who aren’t as fortunate as some of us. Stop worrying about the all mighty dollar and just treat the unfortunate the way you would your own family and God will make sure you’re provided for in your hour of need. God bless.

jane

Posted February 27, 2012 at 12:15 pm

nice

jane

Posted February 27, 2012 at 12:15 pm

nice

Jim Brock

Posted April 25, 2012 at 1:08 pm

As a retired lawyer, I tend more to strict construction of the Constitution. Otherwise, we operate at the will of five persons. FIVE! So much for representative government.

david herzog

Posted August 29, 2012 at 1:44 am

americana need to pay more taxes, just look what happened when regan cut taxes, the country went into the red in the 1980s and have been getting furthur in dept ever since! check it out